Research on extraction process of carotenoids from yeasts and algae based on ionic liquid.

Using Rhodotorula glutinis and Chlorella vularis sludge as raw material, the extraction process of carotenoids from yeast and algae was optimized through single factor and response experiments, and the in vitro antioxidant activity of carotenoids from yeast and algae was investigated. The results showed that the optimal ionic liquid for yeast and algal wall breaking was 1-butyl-3-methylimidazole chloride (BMIMCl), and the optimal extraction process for carotene from yeast and algal sludge was 1 mol/L ionic liquid concentration, pre-treatment temperature of 53 °C, and pre-treatment time of 57 min. Under this condition, the extraction amount of carotene from yeast and algae was 1.311 mg/g. When the mass concentration was 30 μg/mL, the scavenging rates of DPPH free radical, ·OH free radical and ABTS+ free radical were 82.3%, 37.6% and 86.8%, respectively, and the reducing power was 0. 289, showing good antioxidant activity. The yeast and algal sludge treated with BMIMCl had a higher content of extracted carotenoids and better antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]